As part of preparedness by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) towards fire fighting and rescue on high rise buildings, the Tema Regional Command of the institution has started a training and assessment of its personnel in readiness of any eventuality.

Currently, personnel from all the 10 fire stations under the region are being examined on theory and practical aspects of firefighting and rescue on such facilities.

According to the Regional Fire Officer, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) William Yawson, modern trend of firefighting and rescue on high rise building was becoming complex.

It was necessary for the Command to test the efficiency of its personnel and correct shortcoming that might be observed through an ongoing quiz and drill competition.

At the opening ceremony of the competition held on Wednesday, the Tema Fire Station and the Ada Fire Station were engaged in a competition in drills, such as hose running, coupling before opening hydrants, securing of hose in building, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among others.

The competition for the day was won by the Ada Fire Station with 92 while the Tema Fire Station had 87 points, qualifying them to the next stage until an overall winner emerged.

ACFO Yawson commended the contestants, saying he was convinced that especially with the “hydrant drill five,” which involved getting a branch (of personnel) to the upper floors of a building using four men, had been well done and therefore the nation should be assured of their efficiency.